During World War II, Haribo's operations and success were severely disrupted, marked by significant personal challenges for the founding family and a critical change in leadership.
The War's Impact on Haribo
The period from 1939 to 1945 brought an abrupt halt to Haribo's previous successes, which had flourished throughout the 1930s. The company faced immense difficulties and disruptions due to the global conflict.
Key Events and Personnel Challenges
The war profoundly affected the Haribo family and the continuity of the business. Here's a summary of the key impacts:
| Aspect | Impact on Haribo During WWII |
|---|---|
| Business Operations | Haribo's success came to an abrupt halt. |
| Founder's Demise | Hans Riegel Sr., the company's founder, died in 1945 at age 52. |
| Leadership Change | His wife, Gertrud Riegel, took charge of company operations following his death. |
| Family Involvement | Hans Riegel Sr.'s sons, Paul Riegel and Hans Riegel Jr., fought on the German side. |
| Sons' Fate | Both sons were captured and held in American prisoner-of-war camps. |
The direct involvement of the founder's sons in the conflict and their subsequent capture as prisoners of war, combined with the death of Hans Riegel Sr. in the final year of the war, highlight the profound challenges faced by Haribo during this tumultuous period. The leadership transition to Gertrud Riegel was a crucial step in maintaining the company's existence amidst the widespread devastation.
